Answer: We are strong proponents of a cost to benefit analysis. Energy prices in the past have been relatively affordable, and the amount of money spent on energy efficient upgrades have been hard to justify. We have computer modelling programs which show you expected savings on each upgrade and how long the payback period will be, based upon today's energy costs. You, as the consumer, can then tailor the homes as you see fit.

Answer:Obviously there are many variables involved in this. Size, complexity, level of finish, etc. On the low end, a 1500 sq.ft. home with a 2 car garage will take approx. 50 days, with holidays and weekends, figure 2-1/2 months. A 2000 to 2500 sq.ft. home with 3 car garage, hardwood, granite counter and some complicated framing would run about 75-80 working days or 3-1/2 to 4 months.

Question#3 - I have heard that granite countertops are not as Bulletproof as people think. Apparently they need sealed every now & then, and they can also crack. What do you know about this?

Answer:Good Question. Fortunately I have not had that experience with granite. We have lived with granite in our own home for nearly 7 years and never experienced any problems like you indicated. Some things that we do know. Food preparation on granite is NOT recommended. Do not use granite as a cutting block, it can be scratched. Highly acidic liquids will etch the granite. Anything acidic which is spilled should be immediately wiped up with lots of water to dilute the spill. As far as cracking, I am sure it is possible, but it would take quite a force to do it. We also learned that there are varying degrees of hardness with granite. If scratching is a potential hazard make sure to investigate the hardness of the granite that you intended to select.